ONCOLOGY

Medical Oncology

Medical oncologists evaluate cancer patients to determine the best treatment options for each pet based on the type and stage of cancer, and the presence of other concurrent disease. They are also trained in prescribing and administering chemotherapy to pets. There are several chemotherapy drugs and protocols available. Medications can be administered by mouth, intravenously, subcutaneously, or directly into the tumor. Most of our veterinary patients tolerate chemotherapy very well, regardless of the route of administration! Advances in the medical field have improved our ability to avoid, and if needed, manage chemotherapy-induced side effects. Common toxicities resulting in nausea and vomiting are not as frequently encountered as they once were. Our aim is to provide your pet with an excellent quality of life during treatment- and beyond!

CHEMOTHERAPY FAQS

Radiation Oncology

Radiation oncologists use radiation therapy to kill cancer cells in a specific location within the body. Unlike chemotherapy, radiation typically does not cause systemic side effects since it is only delivered to one (or multiple) areas. Radiation therapy is often utilized when surgical removal is not possible. Alternatively, the incorporation of radiation therapy into a treatment plan makes less aggressive surgical options viable. Our radiation service uses a linear accelerator to deliver a high energy beam of radiation to the tumor in a highly targeted manner. The LSU Cancer Treatment Unit is one of the few veterinary facilities in the country that offers intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). IMRT technology allows the radiation beam to be tightly conformed to the contour of the tumor, sparing normal adjacent tissues. We are able to provide IMRT using a technology called RapidArc, which allows the treatments to be performed in a shorter timer period, minimizing the time the patient is under sedation. We are also able to offer Stereotactic Radiation Therapy (SRT) for many types of tumors.